OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Fort King National Historic Landmark is hosting their Summer Nights Lecture Series throughout June with four dates lined up to bring Marion County a month of history. The Thursday evening series will take place at 3925 E. Fort King St., Ocala, on June 4, 11, 18 and 25 from 6-8 p.m. each evening.
The first lecture, “Florida State History from the 1700s,” carries the theme of 18th century history. Edward Billy Bass from Citrus High School will be taking the lead on this lecture. He will discuss the roles of Spain and Britain during their occupations of Florida.
The second lecture will follow the 19th century, “Manifest Destiny: Expanding Westward.” This lecture will be hosted by Richard Kirk from the College of Central Florida. He will explore the shaping of the United States throughout the 19th century and what contributed to the rapid expansion and territorial growth.
The third lecture will be themed to women’s history with, “A House of Their Own: Women’s Stories, Preservation and Interpretation.” There will be two presenters for this lecture, Hannah Rose and Emily Ward with Ximenez-Fatio House Museum in St. Augustine. They will share the history of women and their role in supporting communities and the lasting impact it had.
The fourth and final lecture will follow Seminole history with, “Seminoles on the Frontier.” Pedro Zepeda with the Seminole Tribe of Florida will host this lecture topic. He will share an introduction of Seminole self-identity and their role in Southeastern U.S. frontier expansion.
These four lectures will present the foundation of Florida history through multiple centuries and those who influenced it. Enjoy the series for an educational day out in the natural and historical fields on the fort grounds. To learn more about the series and five lecturers, visit the website here.